On Saturday, Ferguson will return to the dugout when he leads the Great Britain and Ireland Legends XI, as they take on a Rest of the World squad.

During a video preview for the game for Manchester United, Beckham admits that he knew he had to convince the Scotsman to come out of retirement for one game only due to his special connection with the fans.

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He said: "It has just made the match for me and the fans. Without having the manager, the boss, in the dugout, it would not have been the same.

"I know he is coming out of retirement for this game. It means so much, because I know how much it means to the fans to see the manager here.

"Manchester United have always been great supporters of UNICEF, so to have the most decorated manager, and the biggest manager in the game here, it would not have been the same without him."

Beckham insists United's style of play ALWAYS matters

Important: Beckham says fans need to be entertained at United (Image: PA)

David Beckham has joined the raging debate over Manchester United's style, by insisting the club is ALWAYS about far more than winning, writes Mirror Football's David Maddock.

But even though the Old Trafford legend believes stridently any United side must go out to entertain AND show passion, he also offered a defence of current boss Louis van Gaal , by admitting times have changed.

Beckham, who epitomises the style of Old Trafford's glory years, has told the Dutch coach that it can never be just about winning.

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“No, it's not just about winning trophies here, the style definitely matters. It's embedded into this club,” he said.

“We've always played with a certain style, with a certain passion, and I think when you play for Manchester United and are around the club you realise that.

“Style is important, but you have to play with a certain passion. Not every team is going to be the same. We were spoiled to be part of an era that gave us that chance.”

Robben warns Depay: It's not always sunshine

Warning: Depay has been given a warning by his international team-mate (Image: Dean Mouhtaropoulos)

Arjen Robben has warned compatriot Memphis Depay that life is "not always sunshine" in the Premier League - but believes he has what it takes to succeed, writes Mirror Football's Hamish Mackay.

Depay moved to Manchester United from PSV Eindhoven during the summer for £25million but has failed to live up to expectations.

Bayern Munich star Robben, who spent three years with Chelsea before leaving for Real Madrid, conceded that Depay was not performing to his potential - but insisted he would be willing to offer him advice.

"Of course I will give him advice," said Robben. "We try to help each other as players and the team to make steps.

"He is a talented player in a difficult situation - I can give him advice but the player has to cope with it, show strength and the right mentality. It is important in your development as a player. It is not always sunshine and you have difficult periods, especially when you are young.

"He has a long way ahead and if he shows the right mentality, the talent is there. If he keeps working hard I am sure he can succeed."